(Armed Smuggler)…Arrested at the Highway 86 Checkpoint.

It happened Wednesday afternoon. A 26 year old man drove up to the checkpoint in a silver BMW. A Border Patrol k-9 detection team alerted to the vehicle, and it was sent to the secondary inspection area. During the inspection, agents were able to see a handgun, with a magazine inserted, in the pocket of the driver’s side door. The driver was removed from the vehicle and they safely secured the weapon, confirming it was loaded with 10 rounds. A back-pack in the trunk of the vehicle was found to contain 21 rounds of 9mm ammunition. A search of the driver revealed a small amount of methamphetamine. Agents began a search around the area, looking for individuals who may be attempting to walk around the checkpoint. They received a citizen call, informing them 3 individuals were at a nearby ranch. Agents responded and found three men from Mexico, with no legal documents. At least one was connected to the BMW. The men, a 46 year old, a 36 year old and a 28 year old, were taken into custody for processing. The driver of the vehicle, a US citizen, was arrested and charged with Human smuggling.